If you’re a coffee enthusiast who believes every good day starts (and ends) with coffee, this Coffee Lover’s Coffee Cake is for you. Rich, moist, and infused with deep coffee flavor, this cake combines the comforting warmth of a classic crumb cake with the irresistible aroma of freshly brewed coffee.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon treat, this indulgent yet balanced dessert pairs beautifully with your favorite cup of joe. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or chilled from the fridge, every bite delivers the perfect harmony of sweetness and coffee bitterness.
Ingredients
Serves 10–12
For the Cake
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 teaspoons instant coffee granules
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Coffee Crumb Topping
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons instant coffee
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 4 tablespoons (60g) butter, melted
For the Optional Glaze
- 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon brewed coffee
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 35–40 minutes
- Cooling time: 20 minutes
- Total time: About 1 hour, 15 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Dissolve instant coffee granules in the brewed coffee, then mix with sour cream.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the coffee mixture, until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Prepare the Crumb Topping
- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, instant coffee, and cinnamon.
- Add melted butter and stir until crumbly.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Add the Glaze (Optional)
- Mix powdered sugar and brewed coffee until smooth.
- Drizzle over the cooled cake before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy warm with a freshly brewed latte or cappuccino.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
- Dust with cocoa powder for a café-style presentation.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 slice) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Total Fat | 14 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 8 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 42 grams |
| Sugars | 26 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 180 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Coffee provides antioxidants and a gentle energy boost.
- Greek yogurt or sour cream adds protein and keeps the cake moist.
- Optional glaze can be reduced or skipped for a lower-sugar version.
- Pairing with black coffee balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Tips for Perfect Coffee Cake
- Use freshly brewed strong coffee for the richest flavor.
- Allow the cake to cool fully before glazing to prevent melting.
- Substitute brown sugar in the batter for a deeper caramel note.
- For a mocha twist, add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the batter.
Variations to Try
- Nutty Coffee Cake: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the topping for extra crunch.
- Espresso Swirl Version: Swirl in espresso syrup before baking for bold flavor pockets.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and flax eggs.
- Mini Muffin Version: Bake in muffin tins for portion-controlled coffee treats.
This Coffee Lover’s Coffee Cake is everything a true caffeine enthusiast could wish for — rich, aromatic, and irresistibly tender. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, a coffee break, or as a dessert centerpiece, this recipe delivers a satisfying combination of comfort and sophistication.
Simple to prepare yet delightfully indulgent, it’s a coffeehouse-worthy cake you can easily make at home — the perfect companion to your favorite brew.